iOS 26.2 Beta 3 Unveils Key Features: New AirDrop Sharing and Japanese Voice Assistant Choice

Apple has seeded the third beta of iOS 26.2 to developers. The update introduces several new functionalities. This follows the initial beta release last week. The software is expected for a public launch in December.

These iterative updates refine the user experience. According to Apple’s developer notes, the latest beta builds on previous versions. It adds both user-facing features and under-the-hood improvements.

Enhanced Connectivity and Health Features Take Center Stage

A major addition is a new one-time AirDrop code system. This allows file sharing with non-contacts for a 30-day period. Users can manage these temporary contacts in the AirDrop settings. This feature enhances convenience for quick, secure file exchanges.

Health monitoring also sees an expansion. A new API now allows third-party apps to read Hypertension Notifications from an Apple Watch. This means medical apps can be alerted if a user receives a hypertension alert. The data is pulled directly from the Health app.

Regional Customization and Interface Refinements

Apple is preparing a significant change for the Japanese market. Code in the beta suggests users in Japan will be able to assign a different default voice assistant to the Side Button. This could allow activation of alternatives like Google’s Gemini or Amazon’s Alexa.

Interface options are also being fine-tuned. The new Liquid Glass “Tinted” mode now includes automatic handling of conflicting Accessibility settings. The iPadOS 26.2 beta also restores the ability to drag apps into Slide Over from the App Library. This was a feature users missed after the iPadOS 18 update.

The latest iOS 26.2 beta continues to polish the upcoming public release. These incremental changes highlight Apple’s focus on connectivity, health, and regional customization. The final version of iOS 26.2 is anticipated to reach all users next month.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: When will iOS 26.2 be released to everyone?

Apple has confirmed a public release for December 2025. An exact date has not been announced, but it will follow the current beta testing period.

Q2: What is the most notable feature in this beta?

The new one-time AirDrop code for sharing with non-contacts is a significant usability improvement. The planned voice assistant choice for Japan is also a major regional change.

Q3: Do the hypertension alerts work without an Apple Watch?

No, the Hypertension Notification feature requires an Apple Watch to gather the necessary health data. The new API simply lets other apps read those alerts.

Q4: Can anyone use the new Side Button feature for voice assistants?

No, developer documentation confirms this will be limited to Japanese Apple Accounts for users living in Japan. It is not a global feature.

Q5: What happens to the Reminders app in iOS 26.2?

A new feature allows users to mark a reminder as urgent to trigger an alarm. The app now shows a splash screen to explain this new functionality.